Real-Time Water Temperature Data

Real-time temperature data are collected at a 15-minute frequency and transmitted instantaneously. These data are processed and the seven-day and two-hour averages are calculated on a real-time basis to compare to the state standards. These data are provisional. Instances where there are data gaps in the provisional record may result in an inaccurate calculation of the chronic and acute standards.

Northern collects real-time water temperature data at three locations on the Colorado River: downstream of Windy Gap Reservoir (CR-WGD), upstream of Hot Sulphur Springs (CR-HSU) and upstream of Williams Fork (CR-WFU). The seven-day and two-hour averages are displayed below. To download final historic data for these stations, go to the West Slope Temperature Data page.

Water Temperature in Colorado streams is assessed for both chronic and acute exposure in an attempt to protect aquatic life against adverse effects of elevated water temperature. The chronic temperature standard is assessed against a seven-day rolling average of the data, while the acute temperature standard is assessed against the daily maximum of the two-hour rolling average.